Combining comfort and ecology
I bought a Toyota RAV4 hybrid in August 2020 (50,000 km on the odometer). Now that my partner has passed away, my travel needs have changed. This vehicle is too large for my needs. I would like to turn to a subcompact SUV, like the Kona. Since I park on the street, without access to a charging station, should I give up on my dream of an electric vehicle? Or even a hybrid with charging? What are the solutions in this case? Does a hybrid vehicle with charging have to be plugged in every day? I really like the comfort of my RAV4. Will I have to give up on this comfort? What is the most comfortable urban SUV? I could really use your valuable advice to make an informed decision.
Nicole D.
There’s no reason to write off your choice of an electric or plug-in hybrid vehicle, but it could still prove irritating in the more or less long term. If you don’t think you’re disciplined enough to frequent the charging station network, the interim solution probably lies in acquiring a conventional hybrid vehicle (the one that doesn’t plug in). You don’t mention the budget you want to devote to this purchase, but the vehicle that comes first on your list according to your criteria would be the Lexus UX300h (starting at $43,605). This model is being upgraded for 2025 and consumes an average of 5.6 L/100 km and emits 130 g/km of CO2. For comparison, a RAV4 hybrid AWD consumes 6 L/100 km and emits 139 g/km of CO2. The difference is minimal, but the UX will still be more comfortable (better soundproofing) and easier to maneuver than your current RAV4.
The ecological option
PHOTO PROVIDED BY KIA
The Kia Telluride
We own a Hyundai Kona Electric and a Kia Telluride. The latter is a lease and the lease ends in 2025. For the majority of our travel, we use the EV and the Telluride for long trips and interior space (camping and materials). I like not putting gas in the car anymore, so for my vehicle change, I was looking at a hybrid. What would you suggest and is it really worth the price difference?
Kevin J.
A Telluride consumes on average 11.3 L/100 km (266 g/km of CO2). For comparison, a Toyota Grand Highlander Platinum MAX hybrid (starting at $65,450) consumes 8.8 L/100 km (205 g/km of CO2). You might also consider the Kia EV9 (fully electric), which offers the Land and GT-Line versions the ability to tow a load equivalent to that of your current Telluride. In addition, the EV9 offers roughly the same utility dimensions (2,313 litres behind the front seats compared to 2,463 litres for the Telluride). However, there remains the question of “long trips”. The EV9 GT-Line (starting at $78,995) has an electric range of 436 km, but allows for fast charging. Now, is it worth spending this much? We often recommend in this column to keep your current vehicle. You do not mention the purchase cost of your lease at the end of the lease or its current mileage. You say you use your Telluride occasionally. Perhaps you should consider buying it. Some calculations are necessary (cost of financing, insurance, winter tires, maintenance, etc.).
For a change
PHOTO PROVIDED BY KIA
The Kia Seltos
I prefer to lease a vehicle for a period of three years rather than buying. I am on my third Buick Encore. My lease is ending soon and people around me are suggesting that I try a Kia Seltos for a change. I drive about 6000 kilometers per year. I would like to have your opinion on this model and know if this change could be in my favor.
Francine T.
It costs you nothing to try it. You will then discover a pleasant urban SUV, but more firmly suspended above the road. Louder too. And if, by any chance, you are going to try the Seltos, we suggest you also try the Corolla Cross hybrid or the Subaru Crosstrek.
Recurring problem
PHOTO PROVIDED BY VOLKSWAGEN
The Volkswagen Beetle
I have a 2017 Volkswagen Beetle purchased new in 2018, stored six months a year. Now my radio no longer works. No more touch screen and, as a result, impossible to use Google Maps. I learned from a technician at a Volkswagen dealership that he has changed many of them and that this problem is also found on other products of the brand. The price to change the radio is $2000. Obviously, no one can do anything. What do you think?
Beatrice
The problem is common and well documented. We assume that your technician tried – unsuccessfully – to reboot the system. The most economical solution available to you is to consult a car audio specialist. They can offer you a new compatible assembly (screen/radio) for a fraction of the price charged by the dealer.